Tricky Locks In Your Home? Look To A Bathroom Staple For The Solution

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We like to believe our days are shaped by big decisions, but more often they're shaped by tiny battles with everyday objects, from a zipper that bites the fabric to a door lock that insists on defying you. Most of us have had that moment when the day is already hanging by a thread, and we're juggling a dozen things, when a lock decides to jam. We tend to try to ignore these issues, because after all, it usually requires some expensive spray or calling in a locksmith. Luckily, your bathroom cabinet, of all places, holds a fix that doesn't require technical skills. It's affordable and comes in that nostalgic bottle you know so well: baby oil.

While not as ideal as dry lubricants for long-term use, baby oil is one of several effective lubricants you could consider when you need to unstick a lock in a pinch. The truth is, locks live difficult lives, especially the ones facing the outdoors. Rain, dust, humidity, and temperature changes slowly eat away at their metal parts. This causes corrosion that makes them stiff and eventually unusable. 

If, for a moment, you take environmental stressors out of the equation, the simple act of metal pieces sliding against each other day after day can create enough friction to wear down the components slowly. When that happens, you won't be able to open the lock at best, and at worst, you may end up breaking the key and having to replace the entire lock — which is where baby oil comes in.

Timely lubrication with a simple baby oil hack is a quick upkeep that keeps your lock working instead of failing you. Before you jump into fixing the lock, take a moment to gather what you actually need: baby oil, a clean cloth, and an applicator bottle like this Soft N' Style Applicator to apply the oil. Next, fill the applicator with baby oil. The applicator helps you control exactly where the oil lands. Then, carefully apply the oil. Once it looks evenly lubricated, wipe off any drips with the cloth.

Lastly, turn the key in the lock a few times. This helps the oil settle into all the tight corners and ensures everything glides the way it should. Using baby oil is a small fix that takes just a few minutes, but your lock will reward you with that satisfying click you forgot it was capable of.

It is worth noting that baby oil only offers a quick fix by minimizing friction, but over time, the oil's residue attracts dust and grime. Therefore, for long-term reliability, consider using a dry lubricant like silicone or powdered graphite spray that can reduce friction and protect the lock. In addition, it's a good idea to go through your home and lubricate all locks at least twice a year. A little maintenance today will prevent your door keys from sticking tomorrow.